1. Regsitry Keys: A registry key is a folder that contains values, each of which can contain data. Registry keys are arranged in a tree-like structure that mirrors the file system.
2. Subkeys: Subkeys are subfolders within the registry key. They contain additional values and other subkeys.
3. Values: Values are the actual data stored within the registry key. They are typically named according to the type of data they contain. Each value has a specific type, such as string, binary, or number.
4. Settings: Settings are bits of configuration data stored within the registry. Settings can include the Windows version and user preferences.
5. Hives: Hives are large collections of data stored in the registry. The most commonly used hive is the HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE hive, which stores software configuration information.
6. Root Keys: Root keys are top-level keys that contain registry hives. There are five root keys: HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT, HKEY_CURRENT_USER, HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE, HKEY_USERS, and HKEY_PERFORMANCE_DATA.
7. File Extensions: File extensions are associated with certain types of files and applications. When a file is opened, Windows looks for the appropriate file extension in the registry so it can call the correct program.
8. Run Keys: Run keys are used to store programs that should run automatically when the computer starts up. They are usually located in the HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE hive.
9. Software Keys: Software keys store information about installed programs. They are usually located in the HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE hive, under the Software subkey.
10. System Keys: System keys store information about different components of the operating system, including hardware and drivers. They are usually located in the HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE hive.
11. Security Keys: Security keys store information about security settings, such as user accounts, passwords, and policies. They are usually located in the HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE hive.